Indications  

Razadyne is a prescribed medication for mild to moderate dementia of Alzheimer’s type (1). While it does not cure the disease, it can enhance memory, awareness, and daily functional capabilities. 

As a cholinesterase inhibitor, Razadyne functions by elevating acetylcholine levels in the brain, a natural substance necessary for memory and cognitive processes. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before taking Razadyne and with each prescription refill, carefully review its medication guide and patient information leaflet. Seek the guidance of your healthcare provider or pharmacist for any queries or concerns. 

The dosage of this medication is determined based on the patient’s medical condition and response to the treatment. To minimize side effects, dosage will be gradually increased to reach the target dose. 

Typically, Razadyne is taken twice daily as prescribed by the doctor, preferably with morning and evening meals. Ensure to consume ample fluids with this medication unless otherwise directed. 

For optimal results, adhere to a regular intake of this medication. Refrain from discontinuing or altering the prescribed dosage of this medicine unless specifically instructed by your doctor. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the potential adverse effects of Razadyne. If any of them persist or worsen, promptly notify your doctor. 

Common Side Effects 

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite 
• Headache or dizziness 
• Weight loss 

Serious Side Effects 

• Chest pain or slow heart rate 
• Little or no urination 
• Blood in urine 
• Signs of stomach bleeding:  
  • Bloody or tarry stools 
  • Coughing up blood or vomit resembling coffee grounds 
• Signs of liver problems:  
  • Nausea 
  • Upper stomach pain 
  • Itching 
  • Fatigue 
  • Loss of appetite 
  • Dark urine 
  • Clay-colored stools 
  • Jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes) 
• Dehydration symptoms: 
  • Excessive thirst or heat 
  • Inability to urinate 
  • Heavy sweating 
  • Hot and dry skin 
• Light-headed sensation, feeling faint 
• Severe skin reaction:  
  • Fever 
  • Sore throat 
  • Facial or tongue swelling 
  • Eye burning 
  • Skin pain, followed by a spreading red or purple skin rash, blistering, and peeling (especially on the face or upper body) 

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the serious side effects above. 

If you experience any initial signs of a skin rash, regardless of its severity, discontinue the use of Razadyne immediately contact your doctor. 

Allergic Reactions 

Although rare, a severe allergic reaction to Razadyne may occur. Seek medical attention right away if you experience indications of an allergic reaction, such as: 

• Hives 
• Difficulty breathing 
• Swelling face, lips, tongue, or throat 

Not all side effects of Razadyne are included in this list. Notify your doctor promptly if any unlisted effects are experienced. 

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Razadyne, inform your doctor if you have any known allergies, particularly to galantamine, daffodil plants, or other medications. 

Consult your pharmacist for more information about Razadyne, as it may contain inactive ingredients that could trigger allergic reactions or other complications. 

To ensure Razadyne is safe for you, disclose to your physician your medical background, especially if you have a history of: 

• Liver problems 
• Kidney problems 
• Stomach/intestinal problems (e.g., ulcers, bleeding) 
• Heart problems (e.g., sick sinus syndrome, bradycardia, AV block, arrhythmias) 
• Breathing/lung problems (e.g., severe asthma, COPD – chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) 
• Seizures 
• Problem’s urinating (e.g., due to enlarged prostate) 

Inform all your healthcare providers of any current, newly started, or stopped medications, including prescription/non-prescription drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements before taking Razadyne to mitigate the risk of drug interactions. 

Some of the products that may interact with Razadyne are:  

• Anticholinergic drugs (e.g., atropine, diphenhydramine, scopolamine, tolterodine) 
• Beta-blockers (e.g., metoprolol, propranolol),  
• Cholinergic drugs (e.g., bethanechol),  
• Cholinesterase inhibitors (e.g., neostigmine) 
• Digoxin 

The effectiveness of Razadyne may be influenced by other medications that impact its elimination from the body. Examples of such drugs include: 

• Amitriptyline,  
• Azole antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole) 
• Quinidine 
• SSRI antidepressants (e.g., paroxetine) and others 

The use of Razadyne might induce drowsiness. Refrain from driving or operating machinery until the effects of this medication on your body are known. 

Before undergoing surgery, inform the surgeon in advance about your use of Razadyne. There might be a need to temporarily discontinue the medication for a short period. 

In the event of discontinuing Razadyne for more than 3 days, your doctor may tell you to restart at a low dose and increase gradually to avoid side effects. 

The use of Razadyne may lead to QT prolongation, a condition affecting the heart rhythm. In rare cases, this can result in serious, potentially fatal fast or irregular heartbeats and symptoms like severe dizziness and fainting that require immediate medical attention. 

Inform your doctor of your pregnancy status or intentions to conceive, as the potential effects of Razadyne on a developing fetus are uncertain. 

The potential transfer of galantamine into breast milk and its impact on the nursing infant remains unknown. Consult your doctor if you are currently breastfeeding or have plans to breastfeed.